Lieutenant Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Rouse, Dougherty County Police Department, Georgia

Lieutenant Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Rouse

Dougherty County Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Thursday, December 23, 2010

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Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Rouse

Lieutenant Cliff Rouse was shot after responding to an armed robbery at a convenience store on Sylvester Road after 10:00 pm.

Shortly after his initial response to the call, he radioed that he had been shot at a nearby trailer park and needed an ambulance. He had been struck once in the leg and once in the abdomen, just below his vest. He was transported to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.

The 18-year-old suspect was apprehended by a member of the Dougherty County Sheriff's Office during a search of the trailer park. He was charged with felony murder and additional charges in connection with the armed robbery.

On February 25, 2015, the suspect, who was on felony probation, pled guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Lieutenant Rouse had served with the Dougherty County Police Department for 18 years. He is survived by his wife, two children, and parents.

Bio

Age 39
Tour 18 years
Badge 27

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; 9 mm
Offender Sentenced to life

robbery, probation violation

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Most Recent Reflection

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Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 9, 2024